The 6.02×41 mm cartridge, patented by the Tula Cartridge Plant in late 2023, has received mixed reviews. On the one hand, it has better penetration, but on the other hand, there are problems with fire control, according to Kalashnikov expert Colonel Ruslan Chumak.
Chumak acknowledged that the 6.02×41 mm cartridge has several advantages over 5.45/7.62 mm automatic cartridges. Firstly, it has a speed and firing range from 200 m. The Tula novelty has a better penetrating effect compared to conventional cartridges.
But the ability to conduct controlled burst fire from an automatic rifle using this cartridge will decrease to the level of 1949
He recalled that the AK assault rifle was adopted by the USSR Armed Forces at that time. Chumak cited the length of the ammunition as another problem, which exceeds the length of 7.62×39 and 5.45×39 automatic cartridges. The use of 6.02×41 mm may affect the operation of the AK's automatic system, he concluded.
Earlier it was reported that the new Tula cartridge penetrates a bulletproof vest from 300 m.